Enhancing photovoltaic performance through high-energy ball milling of Nb-doped TiO2 nanoparticles.

It is demonstrated the capability of Nb combined with TiO₂ to enhance charge transportation in solar systems; however, the particle size is still a barrier. This work aims to grind Nb:TiO₂ particles, with a complete characterization to analyze the effect caused on particles by processing. Nb:TiO₂ was produced by Pechini methodology, characterized by DLS, XRD, XPS, SEM images, and Mott-Schottky. It was verified the capability of grinding to reduce the particle size (~ 504 nm to ~ 54 nm) and change particle form. In a PV device, the milled particles have been able to produced a j = 10 mA cm⁻². [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]